Are you planning a trip to Santiago and looking for the best things to see and do in this vibrant city? Look no further! Santiago is a beautiful city with a rich history, fascinating culture, and stunning natural wonders. From exploring the historic neighborhoods to hiking in the Andes and tasting traditional Chilean cuisine, Santiago has something for every type of traveler. In this post, we’ll highlight some of the top attractions and must-see sights in Santiago to help you plan your perfect trip. So grab a cup of coffee and get ready to discover the best of Santiago!

The 12 Best Top Activities In Santiago

1. City Tour Santiago Walking Typical Tastings Teleferico and Funicular
2. Private Maipo Valley Wine Tour Cousino Macul and Aquitania
3. San Cristobal Hill Bike Tour
4. Small Group San Cristobal Hill Mountain Bike Tour
5. Full Day Trip to Aconcagua Park Incas Bridge and Incas Lagoon from Santiago
6. Day Trip to the Top 3 Most Famous Wineries in Maipo Valley
7. Mountain Bike Tour to El Yeso Dam and Maipo Valley
8. Full Day Wineries Tour from Santiago
9. Santiago 1 Day Hop on Hop Off Bus Ticket and Cable Car
10. From Santiago Cajon Del Maipo and El Yeso Dam With a Picnic
11. Private Valparaiso and Vina Del Mar Day Trip from Santiago
12. Concha Y Toro Winery Half Day Tour

The 12 Best Top Activities In Santiago

1. City Tour Santiago Walking Typical Tastings Teleferico and Funicular

Looking for a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Santiago? Look no further than this City Tour Santiago! This tour relies on walking and public transportation to take you to the city’s top attractions, including the Plaza de Armas and the Stock Exchange. Along the way, you’ll savor some of the city’s best flavors with a stop in the Bellavista neighborhood to try out some delicious empanadas. Afterward, you’ll take a relaxing cable car trip up to the top of San Cristobal hill before descending back down to the city by the funicular. With small group sizes, you can rest assured you’ll get personal attention from your guide. All transportation fees and bottled water are included, making this a stress-free way to see the best of Santiago.

2. Private Maipo Valley Wine Tour Cousino Macul and Aquitania

Come explore the beauty of Alto Maipo and enjoy a private tour of two boutique wineries – Viña Haras de Pirque and Viña El Principal. At Viña Haras de Pirque, you’ll learn about their winemaking and barrel-aging process before indulging in a tasting session with three exquisite wines. Moving further, we’ll stop at Viña El Principal, located at the foot of the Andes, where you’ll get to relax and enjoy their award-winning wines in the shadow of the majestic mountains. With guided tours of the vineyards and tasting sessions, this private Maipo Valley wine tour of Cousino Macul and Aquitania promises to be an experience of a lifetime. Sip on delicious wines as you take in the stunning views of the Andes Mountains.

3. San Cristobal Hill Bike Tour

Enjoy a private 3-hour bike tour to San Cristobal Hill and take in the panoramic views of Santiago. Challenge yourself to reach the 860-meter summit and then descend for a thrilling ride back down to the bottom. Marvel at the sights from the Mirador Terraza Bellavista viewpoint at the top of the hill, where you can see the entire city. All necessary equipment is included, and you can choose between morning or afternoon departure times. Cycle through the city streets to experience the local atmosphere. This private tour is operated by a guide/driver and includes pickup from a centrally located meeting point. Use of a Trek 3900 or Mongoose bike, helmet, bike gloves, and water bottle are included in the tour, but food and drinks, gratuities, and hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. The meeting point is located at El Comendador 2060 Providencia, at a white house with the number 2060 on the wall.

4. Small Group San Cristobal Hill Mountain Bike Tour

Mountain biking to San Cristobal Hill is a thrilling adventure that takes you through back roads and narrow paths, offering impressive views across Santiago. This small-group tour is led by an expert biking guide who will take you from a central location in Santiago to the top of the San Cristobal Hill. From there, you’ll take a cable car ride to a network of dirt and gravel trails that borders the hill.

Over the course of the tour, you’ll ride down the hill’s winding trails, covering a distance of six miles (10 kilometers) to Bicentennial Park and the Mapocho River. Along the way, your guide will point out key landmarks and share insights into Santiago’s history and culture.

The tour includes the use of a Mountain Bike Trek 3900 or Mongoose, a helmet, and biking gloves, as well as a water bottle. Food and drinks are not included in the tour but may be purchased at various stops along the way. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also not included.

This tour is ideal for those who are comfortable on a mountain bike and want to explore Santiago’s natural beauty in an exciting and unique way. The meeting point is El Comendador 2060 Providencia Santiago Región Metropolitana Chile.

5. Full Day Trip to Aconcagua Park Incas Bridge and Incas Lagoon from Santiago

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aconcagua Park, Incas Bridge, and Incas Lagoon on a full-day trip departing from Santiago. Begin your day with a complimentary breakfast before being picked up from your hotel, apart hotel, or B&B in Santiago. Enjoy the 2-hour ride through the scenic Andes Mountains to reach Aconcagua Park, home to the highest mountain in the Americas at 6,962 meters.

Once you arrive at Aconcagua Park, you will visit the Inca Bridge, a stunning natural rock formation that offers a panoramic view of the valley below. Afterward, continue to the Inca Lagoon, a tranquil and scenic spot that is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings. Take some time to enjoy the serene setting and snap some photos before heading back to Santiago.

During the journey, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will share interesting insights into the history and culture of the Andes Mountains. A delicious lunch will be provided, allowing you to savor the authentic flavors of local cuisine. National Park fees, as well as your driver and guide, are already included in the tour price.

Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions. The minimum age for this tour is 18 years, and the dress code is smart casual. The tour may be operated by a multilingual guide for your convenience.

Cancellation can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Any modifications or cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted. Join us for an unforgettable adventure in the Andes Mountains!

6. Day Trip to the Top 3 Most Famous Wineries in Maipo Valley

Located just outside of Santiago City, the Maipo Valley is home to some of Chile’s most famous wineries. This guided day tour takes visitors to the top three wineries in the region: Concha y Toro, Santa Rita, and Undurraga. At each location, guests will enjoy a tour and tasting, learning about the production process and history of each winery. Lunch is included, and hotel pickup and drop-off is provided. This is a great opportunity to explore the beauty and flavor of Chile’s wine country.

7. Mountain Bike Tour to El Yeso Dam and Maipo Valley

Explore the stunning natural beauty of El Yeso Dam and Maipo Valley on a full-day private bike tour. Accompanied by a qualified instructor, travel deep into the heart of the Andes mountain range and embark on a 12-mile (19-km) downhill mountain biking excursion around the magnificent El Yeso Dam. The difficulty level of the ride can be adapted according to your skill level, making it suitable for bikers of all abilities. Along the way, admire the breathtaking scenery and enjoy a picnic breakfast before returning to Santiago. Hotel pickup and drop-off, mountain bike helmet and gloves, and additional food and drinks are all included in this unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience one of Santiago’s most exciting outdoor activities!

8. Full Day Wineries Tour from Santiago

Discover the secrets of Chilean wine on a full-day tour of the vineyards around Santiago. Hotel pick-up and transportation by car or minibus are included. You’ll go behind-the-scenes at two of Chile’s top wineries, the historic Concha y Toro and Undurraga Winery. Enjoy guided tours of the wineries, peek into the production rooms and cellars, and indulge in expert-led tastings. All taxes, fuel surcharges, and service fees are included, as well as free admission to top local attractions. Professional guides will accompany you in each winery. Food and drinks are not included unless specified, and gratuities are also not included. The tour starts at 08:30 AM, with hotel pickup available at centrally located hotels and accommodations in the districts of Providencia, Las Condes (until PADRE HURTADO STREET), Vitacura, and Santiago Centro. If your hotel is outside the pickup zone, a meeting point closest to your hotel will be advised.

9. Santiago 1 Day Hop on Hop Off Bus Ticket and Cable Car

Discover some of the most iconic places in Downtown Santiago with this 1-day Hop-On-Hop-Off bus tour. The tour allows you to hit all the major tourist spots at your leisure, giving you the opportunity to take the time to visit sites of particular interest to you. On-board recorded commentaries help you learn more about the city and its attractions while providing you with an alternative perspective from which to take stunning photos of Santiago.

The Hop-On-Hop-Off tour is split into two routes: the Santiago Patrimonial route and the Modern Santiago route. Both routes meet at Cerro San Cristobal, the largest urban park in Latin America, where you can explore attractions like the Santiago Teleferico cable car and Funicular. This tour includes a panoramic bus ride to the summit of Cerro San Cristóbal on your first day, where you can enjoy amazing aerial views.

On the Santiago Patrimonial route, you can take the time to explore the historic center of the city. Hop off to explore sites like the Metropolitan Cathedral, Casa Colorada, the Museum of Santiago, and the National History Museum.

For an unforgettable experience and a unique and exciting way to see the city, book this 1-day Hop-On-Hop-Off tour of Santiago today!

10. From Santiago Cajon Del Maipo and El Yeso Dam With a Picnic

Discover the stunning natural beauty of the Andes Mountains on a memorable day trip from Santiago. On this tour, you’ll marvel at picturesque landscapes as you pass through the Tinoco Tunnel and admire the stunning Cajón del Maipo gorge. As you make your way through the canyon, you’ll get the chance to see the large El Yeso reservoir, a major water source for Santiago. The highlight of the tour is the chance to enjoy a light picnic lunch overlooking the shimmering El Yeso Dam. Take a deep breath of fresh mountain air and sip on a delicious glass of wine as you soak up the incredible views. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned van, a knowledgeable guide to lead the way, a tasty picnic snack, and a glass of wine to enjoy. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience while visiting Santiago!

11. Private Valparaiso and Vina Del Mar Day Trip from Santiago

Combine two popular Santiago day trips into one with this guided private tour to Valparaiso and Vina del Mar. Explore the distinct history and culture of each UNESCO-listed town, including the Flower Clock, street art installations, Chile’s first historical casino, and a local residential neighborhood. Enjoy the comfort and ease of private transportation with a knowledgeable English and Spanish-speaking guide, ensuring a more personalized experience. Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as gratuities, are included, but food and drink costs and entrance fees are not. Discover some of the best attractions and things to do in Santiago with this unforgettable day trip.

12. Concha Y Toro Winery Half Day Tour

Explore one of Chile’s most famous wineries on this 4-hour half-day tour, perfect for first-time visitors to Santiago. A local guide will lead the way as you enjoy magnificent views over the vineyards, tour the legendary Concha y Toro winery, discover the winery’s 100-year-old history and peek into their wine cellars. Plus, finish off with a complimentary glass of wine. Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as admission to top local attractions, are included. Pickup is available from centrally located hotels in Santiago Centro, Providencia, Las Condes (until Manquehue street), and Vitacura. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking. Food and drinks are not included unless specified. Join us on this tour to experience the beautiful wine region of Chile.

Frequently Asked Questions about Santiago for Tourists

Santiago is a vibrant city in Chile that offers an interesting mix of modernity and tradition. Tourists often have several questions before visiting the city, and in this blog post, we aim to answer some of the most commonly asked ones.

1. What is the Best Time to Visit Santiago?

The best time to visit Santiago is between November and February when the weather is pleasant and there is no rainfall. It is also the time when the city is the liveliest because many festivals take place during these months.

2. What are the Must-See Tourist Attractions in Santiago?

Santiago has several tourist attractions, but some of the must-visit places are:

• The Metropolitan Cathedral
• La Moneda Palace
• The Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts
• The Cerro San Cristobal Hill
• The Santa Lucia Hill
• The Concha y Toro Winery

3. What Are Some of the Best Places to Stay in Santiago?

There are several places to stay in Santiago, depending on one’s budget and preferences. Some of the best options are:

• The Bellavista neighborhood for a vibrant nightlife scene and street art
• The Providencia neighborhood for shopping and sightseeing
• The Lastarria neighborhood for historic architecture and cultural attractions
• The Las Condes neighborhood for luxury hotels and high-end restaurants

4. What is the Safety Situation in Santiago?

Santiago is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any other city, tourists should exercise caution while traveling. It is recommended to keep a watchful eye on personal belongings, avoid displaying expensive items, and take care while using public transport.

5. How is the Food in Santiago?

Santiago has diverse cuisine, including traditional Chilean dishes and international cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes are:

• Cazuela: a traditional Chilean soup with meat and vegetables
• Empanadas: turnover-style pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables
• Curanto: a seafood stew
• Asado: grilled meat served with potatoes and vegetables
• Completos: Chilean-style hot dogs

6. How is the Public Transport in Santiago?

Santiago has an extensive and efficient public transport system that includes a metro, buses, and taxis. The metro is an excellent way to travel around the city; it is clean, fast, and reliable. Tourists should also download the Transantiago app to check bus schedules and routes. Taxis are also available but can be expensive.

7. What Are Some of the Best Places to Shop in Santiago?

Santiago has a wide range of shopping destinations from high-end malls to unique markets. Some of the must-visit shopping destinations are:

• The Costanera Center Mall: the largest and most popular mall with a range of international and local brands
• The Pueblito Los Dominicos Market: a market selling handicrafts and souvenirs
• The La Vega Central Market: a traditional market selling fresh produce, meat, and fish
• The Alto Las Condes Mall: a high-end mall with luxury brands and designer stores

8. What is the Nightlife like in Santiago?

Santiago has a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars, pubs, and clubs. Some of the best places to experience the nightlife in Santiago are:

• The Bellavista neighborhood: a lively and colorful neighborhood with a range of bars and nightclubs
• The Lastarria neighborhood: a bohemian neighborhood with a range of bars and cultural events
• The Vitacura neighborhood: a neighborhood with high-end bars and restaurants

9. What Are the Festivals and Events that Take Place in Santiago?

Santiago hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, some of the most popular ones are:

• The Santiago a Mil: a theater festival that takes place in January
• The Lollapalooza Music Festival: an international three-day music festival that takes place in March
• The Fiestas Patrias: the Chilean Independence Day celebrations that take place in September
• The Grape Harvest Festival: a wine festival that takes place in March

10. What Are Some of the Day Trips That Can Be Taken from Santiago?

There are several day trips that can be taken from Santiago; some of the most popular ones are:

• The Valparaiso and Viña del Mar: a coastal city with beautiful architecture and beach resorts
• The Cajon del Maipo: a canyon in the Andes Mountains with scenic views and outdoor activities
• The Colchagua Valley: a wine region with several vineyards and wineries
• The Isla Negra: a coastal town with a museum dedicated to the poet Pablo Neruda

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Santiago, Chile

Santiago, the capital city of Chile, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that has something to offer for everyone. From its charming colonial neighbourhoods to the bustling downtown area, Santiago has plenty of attractions to keep you busy. But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. To help you make the most of your time in Santiago, we’ve put together this guide of must-see sights, activities, and experiences.

1. Explore the Historic Center

Santiago’s historic center is a fascinating mix of colonial-era architecture, museums, and markets. Begin your journey at the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square, where you’ll find the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral and the National History Museum. From there, you can take a stroll along the pedestrian-only Paseo Ahumada, which is lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.

2. Visit the Cerro San Cristobal

For panoramic views of the city, head to the Cerro San Cristobal. This hill is one of the largest urban parks in the world and offers a variety of attractions, including a botanical garden, a funicular railway, and a 72-foot statue of the Virgin Mary. There are also several hiking trails that lead to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Santiago.

3. Learn about Chilean Art and Culture

Santiago has a thriving arts and culture scene, and there are plenty of museums and galleries to explore. One of the most popular is the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, which houses a vast collection of Chilean and Latin American art from the 19th and 20th centuries. If you’re interested in contemporary art, be sure to visit the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo, which features works from both local and international artists.

4. Taste the Local Cuisine

Chilean cuisine is a delicious blend of indigenous and European flavors, with seafood, meat, and fresh produce being staples of the diet. To experience the best of Chilean food, head to the Mercado Central, a buzzing market where you can sample fresh seafood dishes and traditional empanadas. You can also find plenty of restaurants and cafes in the Bellavista neighborhood, a trendy area known for its vibrant nightlife.

5. Take a Day Trip to the Andes Mountains

Located just outside of Santiago, the majestic Andes Mountains offer a stunning backdrop to the city. Many tour companies offer day trips to the mountains, where you can hike, ski, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery. If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, consider visiting one of the nearby hot springs, where you can soak in natural pools surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

6. Enjoy the Nightlife

Santiago has a lively nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. For a taste of traditional Chilean music, head to a peña, a type of local tavern where live musicians play folkloric music. Alternatively, you can explore the trendy barrios of Lastarria and Bellavista, which are known for their excellent cocktail bars and restaurants.

Book Your Tour Now

No matter how long you’re planning to stay in Santiago, there’s always more to see and do. With this guide, you’ll be able to plan an itinerary that includes some of the city’s most beloved attractions and experiences. Whether you’re interested in art and culture, outdoor adventure, or simply soaking up the local ambiance, Santiago is a destination that won’t disappoint.Remember to experience these iconic landmarks, and track your journey through the official Santiago Chile online tourism website. Don’t forget that your trip to Santiago isn’t complete without great food and wine, so indulge yourself and enjoy everything this fantastic city has to offer.